Black Friday: Which Stores, Malls Are Opening Earliest?

These days, even the toy aisle for babies seem to be full of electronics. But there are choices out there that still have a more basic, old-fashion appeal. And these toys won't leave you feeling like Scrooge: They are all under $50. (Amy Ellis)

KORKY VANN, kvann@courant.com

Black Friday, or (as we bargain hunters like to call it) the shopping Olympics, is almost here. If you're heading out, be sure to plan your route, put on comfortable shoes and time your arrivals. For the best deals, you'll need to be at the head of the line when doors open.

Here's a roundup of area mall and store openings for Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday:

>>Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets: The center opens at midnight; select stores open as early as 9 p.m. on Thursday.

>>Dick's Sporting Goods: Friday at 5 a.m.

>>Evergreen Walk in South Windsor: On Thursday, Gap and Gap Kids will be open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Old Navy will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Friday, the center opens at 9 a.m., but individual stores have earlier openings. (Old Navy opens at midnight; LL Bean, Banana Republic, Gap, Gap Kids, Justice, Jos a. Bank and Eddie Bauer at 6 a.m.)

>>Ocean State Job Lot: Stores will be open from 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day until 11 p.m. on Friday.

>>Office Max: Stores will open between 4 and 6 a.m. on Friday, (depending on location).

>>Old Navy: Some stores will be open on Thanksgiving Day. Hours vary. All Old Navy stores will open at midnight Thursday.

>>Radio Shack: Friday at 5:30 a.m.

>>Sears: Friday at 4 a.m.

>>Shoppes at Farmington Valley in Canton: Old Navy will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday. On Friday, the center opens at 8 a.m. (Individual stores have earlier openings : Old Navy and Kohl's open at midnight; American Eagle opens at 3 a.m., Children's Place opens at 4 a.m.; Dick's, Jos. A. Bank and Panera open ay 5 a.m.; Justice opens at 6 a.m. and Kiddlywinks opens at 7 a.m.)